Rico Lewis is hoping Manchester City can claim a statement victory at Arsenal on Sunday.
City returned to winning ways last night with a 3-1 triumph at RB Leipzig in the Champions League, a match in which 18-year-old Lewis excelled in a more advanced midfield role.
They return to Premier League action at the weekend to take on an Arsenal side that pushed them all the way last season. The Gunners held an eight-point lead over City at the league summit in April only to be overhauled by Pep Guardiola’s men on their way to a domestic and continental treble.
Arsenal have started well again this term and sit just a point behind table-topping City in third.
Lewis knows a win at the Emirates would send a message to Arsenal, and second-placed Tottenham.
He told the Guardian: “It’s a way we can put a stamp on the season and really make sure the rest of the league knows we’re aiming to do the same as last season.”
Lewis knows, however, that Arsenal will be just as eager to claim the points and take an element of revenge for last season’s disappointment.
He added: “I think they will definitely have been hurt after that.
“They did so well last season and unfortunately for them they didn’t come away with the prize but it’s going to push them to be even better, which obviously pushes us.”
Guardiola heaped praise on Lewis following Wednesday’s game in Germany, describing him as “one of the best players he had ever trained”, although it does not guarantee him a place in the starting XI on Sunday.
Lewis said: “I do my best and we’ll see what happens but it’s all about what the manager chooses and decides is right. It’s just about patience for myself.
“There are so many world-class players in that dressing room so all I can do is my best and learn.
“The opportunities will come and when they do I’ve got to take them. I just have to stay patient.”
